Characterization of Aluminium Alloy/ SiC Metal Matrix Composites

Abstract

The present research involved the conduction of hardness and compression tests of aluminium AA-2618 alloy matrix composite reinforced with white Silicon Carbide particulates. The composites were fabricated using Stir Casting technique of liquid metallurgy and machined to the required ASTM standards. The hardness tests were conducted using a Brinell hardness tester, whereas the compression tests were conducted using a Universal Testing Machine. Appropriate readings were taken during the conduction of the tests in order to be compared with each other as well as the base alloy. The results and conclusions were analyzed and compared to help determine the nature of the trends that arise due to the incremental addition of reinforcement particulates into the matrix material on the hardness and compressive behavior of the composites, in order to determine their potentiality for application in various industrial fields.